The Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia has reached new heights of excitement, not just on the field but off it as well. Following earlier incidents, such as the Australian media attempting to capture unauthorized footage of Virat Kohli's family at the airport, a new controversy has emerged involving the press conference of India's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
The Jadeja Press Conference Controversy
After India's first practice session at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) organized a press conference for Ravindra Jadeja, intended exclusively for Indian journalists covering IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Test series. However, Cricket Australia's media team reportedly invited Australian journalists without prior coordination, which led to tensions.
Australia media's clash with Team India's Media Manager Moulin Parikh
During the press conference, many Indian journalists asked questions from Ravindra Jadeja in Hindi, and the star all-rounder responded in kind. Due to time constraints, no Australian journalists were given the opportunity to ask questions. After the session ended, an Australian journalist approached Indian media manager Moulin Parikh, questioning why no questions were taken in English.
As Parikh tried to explain, an Australian cameraman began recording the conversation without consent.
The Australian media escalated the incident, drawing comparisons to the earlier controversy involving Virat Kohli at the airport. In their coverage, they criticized the Indian team for being uncooperative and inappropriate while interacting with the Australian press.
IND vs AUS Test series is currently tied 1-1. The fourth Test between the two teams will begin from December 26 onwards at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).